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Interplay Jazz Orchestra: Detour
ByThis outfit, originally taking shape as the Hofstra University Alumni Big Band back in 2003 and evolving into its current state over time, celebrated ten years of existence with the release of its debutMy Love You're Free (Self Produced, 2013). Since that point, the orchestra, under the direction of trumpeter Gary Henderson and trombonist Joey Devassy, has maintained its identity, kept its personnel steady, expanded its book, and played just enough to keep everything lubricated and running smoothly. And now this tight assemblage comes roaring back with Detoura sophomore statement that's even more memorable than the group's debut.
The Interplay Jazz Orchestra hits every item on the big band checklist at some point in this program. Latin grooves, bright swing, balladry, mellow strolls, and rock-funk inflections are all part of the package. In some instances, more than one of those ideals are melded together in a single performance, but plenty of numbers focus in on a single concept. The album opens on "Puesta Del Sol," a hot Latin original from baritone saxophonist Chris Scarnato. It's a piece that benefits from Andrew Gould's fluid alto work and trumpeter Damian Pacheco's spicy statements while also shining a spot light on the rhythm section and the band as a whole. Two sides of the swing coin follow. Scarnato's "Detour" swings hard and delivers a noteworthy soli statement from the saxophone section while Devassy's "Serendipitous" takes a more relaxed, Basie-ish approach. Then there's "Not Enough," a number that bridges the funk-disco-jazz divide with mixed results; Henderson's arrangement of Dexter Gordon's "Soy Califa," delivering oomph, sleek contoured Latin-ish insinuations, and swing in equal parts; and the immortal "Body And Soul," which finds tenor saxophonist Alejandro Aviles in the driver's seat.
The balance of the program includes Henderson's lively "Close Quarters," a hip redesign of Sonny Rollins' "Alfie Theme" from trombonist Brent Chiarello and Andrea Gonnella, guitarist Chris Doherty's spry "First Timer," and an appropriately deep take on trombonist J.J. Johnson's "Lament" arranged by Devassy. Then it all comes to an end with a tune from the man who started it all for this bandpianist Dave Lalama, the head of the jazz program at Hofstra University. His "Reunion@Hofstra," a hot and bluesy swinger with plenty of solo space, closes the album in fine fashion. The Interplay Jazz Orchestra already had it together on its debut, but it completely outdoes itself with Detour.
Track Listing
Puesta Del Sol; Detour; Serendipitous; Not Enough; Soy Califa; Body And Soul; Close Quarters; Alfie's Theme; First Timer; Lament; Reunion@Hofstra.
Personnel
Interplay Jazz Orchestra
band / ensemble / orchestraJonathan Holford: alto saxophone; Andrew Gould: alto saxophone; John Marshall: tenor saxophone; Alejandro Aviles: tenor saxophone; Luke Norris: tenor saxophone; Chris Scarnato: baritone saxophone; Brent Chiarello: trombone; Joe Devassy: trombone; Justin Friedman: trombone; Eric Gottesman: bass trombone; Mike Rubenstein: trumpet; Damien Pacheco: trumpet; Steve Henry: trumpet; Gary Henderson: trumpet; Jay Orig: piano; Chris Doherty: guitar; Dr. Pete Coco: bass; Mark Portugal: drums.
Album information
Title: Detour | Year Released: 2016 | Record Label: Self Produced
Comments
About Interplay Jazz Orchestra
Instrument: Band / ensemble / orchestra
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